Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole brings together the wholesome goodness of quinoa with the vibrant crunch of broccoli, all enveloped in a melty blanket of cheese. This dish offers a deliciously comforting and nutritious meal option that appeals to both vegetarians and meat lovers alike. Packed with protein and fiber, it serves as a perfect side or a complete meal, making it a versatile choice for family dinners or gatherings.
Why We Love This Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole
This Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole stands out for several reasons. First, the combination of quinoa and broccoli creates a well-balanced dish that is not only filling but also rich in nutrients. Quinoa offers excellent protein, while broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals. The cheese provides a creamy texture and flavorful depth that brings the entire dish together.
Another reason to love this casserole is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the ingredient ratios or swap out veggies based on what you have on hand. This dish is also perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Finally, this recipe offers a satisfying way to introduce more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dish or something comforting, this casserole does it all.
Ingredients for Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the broth is absorbed.
- In a separate large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for another 5–7 minutes until the broccoli is tender yet still bright green.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed onion and broccoli mixture, milk, Greek yogurt, salt, pepper, dried thyme, and paprika. Mix well to combine.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, reserving a handful of each for topping.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Scatter the reserved cheeses on top and sprinkle with grated Parmesan.
- Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole
Serving Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole is as delightful as preparing it. This casserole shines as a main dish or as a side to complement other meals. Pair it with a simple green salad for a light lunch or dinner. For heartier fare, serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish. You can also garnish your portion with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese for added flair.
If you’re hosting a gathering, consider presenting it in the baking dish, allowing guests to serve themselves straight from the oven. For a family-friendly meal, portion it out on plates and add a slice of crusty bread on the side. You can even transform leftovers into an exciting breakfast option—top it with an egg for a protein-packed start to your day. Whatever your choice, feel free to adapt the serving method to fit your occasion and your guests’ preferences.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole
For the best results with your Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole, here are some expert tips to keep in mind. First, ensure you rinse the quinoa to eliminate its natural bitterness. This step enhances the dish’s flavor profile. When it comes to cheese, experiment with different varieties. Mixing sharp cheddar with a milder cheese like Monterey Jack can create a complex flavor that visitors will love.
Mise en place is also essential. Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking to streamline the process. If you’re short on time, use frozen broccoli florets; they work just as well and save you some prep time. Remember not to overcook the broccoli when sautéing, as it will continue cooking in the oven. This preserves its vibrant color and crunch.
If you want an extra crunch on top, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with herbs and melted butter before the final baking stage. This addition will give your casserole a delightful texture contrast that elevates the dish even further. Lastly, don’t hesitate to customize the herbs and spices to match your taste.
How to Store Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole
To store Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Proper storage ensures it stays fresh for your next meal. It will hold up well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just reheat servings in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. Slice it into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container. When stored this way, the casserole can last for up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming it up in the oven or microwave.
Variations of Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole
While the classic Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole is delightfully satisfying, don’t hesitate to play around with the ingredients for unique variations. If you want to incorporate more vegetables, consider adding diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Each brings its own flavor and texture that can enhance the dish.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, add some chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. You might also try swapping out cheese varieties; for instance, using gouda or feta can create entirely different flavor profiles.
If you are looking for a protein boost, add cooked chickpeas, black beans, or shredded chicken to the mix. This added protein not only makes the dish heartier but also makes it suitable for meat-lovers.
Lastly, feel free to experiment with grains. Quinoa is fantastic, but mixing in brown rice or couscous can create a different texture that may surprise your taste buds. Each variation allows you to personalize and make this casserole your own.
FAQ about Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole
Can I make Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving.
What type of cheese works best for Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole?
A mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses works well, but feel free to use any cheese you love, such as gouda or Monterey Jack.
Is Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole gluten-free?
Yes, this casserole is gluten-free since it primarily uses quinoa, which is a gluten-free grain.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
Your casserole is done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top, usually after 30-35 minutes of baking.
Can I substitute the Greek yogurt in the casserole?
Yes, you can use sour cream, cottage cheese, or omit it altogether if you prefer a lighter dish.
Cheesy Quinoa Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa Rinse before cooking.
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 3 cups broccoli florets Fresh or frozen.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Reserve some for topping.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Reserve some for topping.
- 1/2 cup milk Any type of milk works.
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt Can substitute with sour cream.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for another 5–7 minutes until tender yet bright green.
Combining and Baking
- In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, sautéed onion and broccoli mixture, milk, Greek yogurt, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Mix well.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, reserving a handful for topping.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Scatter the reserved cheeses on top and sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
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